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JUN 23rd 2016

Bob Mayhew ‑ the first step to a PPL

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Richard Gale interviewed Bob Mayhew, a new student who has just started to learn to fly at Goodwood.

Q

What inspired you to learn to fly?

A

Many, many things…. Seeing the Shackeltons doing circuits as a small boy on holiday in Cornwall; R/C model airplanes; knowing pilots that fly private, commercial and even military aircraft, and in one case a Luftwaffe Tornado instructor!
Family commitments and starting up in business kept me at arm’s length from the cockpit. Fast forward - a Christmas present of a flight in the Goodwood Harvard, this reignited my yearning to fly. Everyone at the Flying School was so welcoming and seeing the Cessnas lined up was the final catalyst! A dream morphing into reality.
Thank you to the team at Goodwood Flying School for all your help and friendship.

Q

Why Goodwood?

A

Obviously it’s the nearest school to me. However there is more to it than just that. History; the idyllic setting; the views when aloft; and most importantly as aforementioned, the welcome you get from the team; It makes you feel part of the family from the word go!

Q

What's your most memorable experience so far?

A

All of it – when you’ve wanted to do something for 55 years, you savour every moment…. I’m truly “living the dream”! The first landing has to be the answer, but my first circuit without giving Rob Wildeboer, my Flying Instructor, white hairs, might be a close second!

Q

What are your plans once you have reached go-solo standard?

A

Let’s get there first! However it will definitely be to keep flying. I love it. Do I sound hooked? Is the Pope, Catholic?!!

Q

What have you found challenging in your training?

A

I think it’s all a challenge – mind over matter. However, as one progresses – with patient teaching, and a ‘wash up’ with the instructor it means that queries are cleared up as soon as possible, so you are more relaxed and sure when you next walk in.
I find the radio the most challenging. It’s a “new” language. As someone who has demonstrated horses, talking to some 2,000 people, I thought I’d find it easy. Try learning Italian on a CD in your car radio, whilst driving – then you’ll get the picture! I always feel I should say “Goodwood information, numpty here again”!!